SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Program

Welcome to the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. This two-year program provides advanced training in the clinical care of children and adolescents with mental health issues. It is designed to equip fellows with comprehensive skills in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology while engaging in a broad range of clinical experiences.

The program emphasizes a rich academic environment with clinical rotations taking place across various esteemed institutions including SUNY Downstate, NYC Health+Hospital/Kings County, New York City Children's Center (NYCCC) - Brooklyn Campus, and the Institute for Basic Research. This extensive training prepares fellows for the growing demands and complexity of child and adolescent psychiatry, focusing on delivering evidence-based care within diverse clinical settings.

Curriculum and Rotations

During the fellowship, the curriculum is structured around core competencies, as defined by the ACGME. The program aims to develop skills in:

• Patient care
• Medical knowledge
• Practice-based learning and improvement
• Interpersonal and communication skills
• Professionalism
• Systems-based practice

In the first year, fellows primarily work in acute care settings, including the inpatient service and consultation-liaison roles, as well as comprehensive psychiatric emergency programs. Specific responsibilities involve diagnosing and treating patients with a variety of psychiatric disorders in diverse environments.

The second year shifts focus almost entirely to outpatient care, allowing fellows to refine advanced skills in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Rotations include the Developmental Evaluation Clinic (DEC), the outpatient department (OPD), and ongoing psychotherapy cases, with additional opportunities for forensic and school consultation experiences. Throughout the fellowship, fellows will engage in a scholarly project aimed at developing research skills and contributing to the academic community.

Didactic Trainings

The didactic component of the fellowship is robust, covering various topics essential to child and adolescent psychiatry. Sessions include seminars focused on:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• Family therapy
• Neuroscience in pediatrics
• Consultation-liaison practices

By participating in these didactics, fellows gain foundational knowledge and practical skills critical for their daily clinical responsibilities.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship provides ample opportunities for research and scholarly activities. Fellows have protected time during both years to pursue projects that interest them. Past fellows have conducted research projects presented at prestigious forums such as the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Annual Meeting and other regional conferences, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for a future in academic or clinical practice.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the distinctive features of the program is its strong community orientation, allowing fellows to experience firsthand the dynamics of public health modeling and community-based psychiatry. Graduates emerge as compassionate professionals who are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of psychiatric care.

Additionally, SUNY Downstate fosters a supportive environment conducive to personal and professional development. The faculty members bring a wealth of experience, guiding fellows as they face various challenges inherent in their training.

Visa Support

The program accepts applicants holding J-1 Visas, thereby welcoming international medical graduates and providing a pathway for those seeking training in child and adolescent psychiatry within the United States.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at SUNY Downstate is known to be competitive, attracting a diverse pool of applicants, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds. Prospective applicants need to provide a completed ERAS application, personal statement, letters of recommendation including one from the program director, and documentation of USMLE scores. The milestones of application emphasize prior clinical experience and capability in child psychiatry.

Living in Brooklyn

Life in Brooklyn is vibrant and diverse, providing fellows with a multitude of experiences outside the medical environment. From cultural events, dining options, and a sense of community to recreational activities, Brooklyn offers an enriching experience for residents looking to balance work and personal life.

In summary, the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University engages its fellows in a comprehensive educational journey. The blend of clinical training, research experience, didactic learning, and the vibrant backdrop of Brooklyn contributes to a uniquely rewarding fellowship experience.